Hunter invites public to outreach event targeting opioid addiction

CHICAGO — State Senator Mattie Hunter, convener of the South Side Heroin/Opioid Task Force, is inviting the community to the task force’s inaugural street outreach event, which will provide information and support to those affected by substance use.

“We want to make sure that everyone has access to the tools and information they need to stay safe,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “This event is a great opportunity for those struggling with substance abuse to learn about the resources available to them and will help equip our community with the knowledge and supplies they need to save lives.”

The event will be held Thursday, July 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the corner of 112th Street and Michigan Avenue. Hunter and members of the task force will be distributing Narcan, fentanyl test strips, opioid addiction resources and other harm reduction materials. Naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, is used to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, whereas fentanyl test strips can detect the presence of fentanyl in other drugs.

The South Side Heroin/Opioid Task Force is comprised of community-based agencies, health care providers and governmental agencies to address the opioid epidemic facing those who reside on the city’s South Side. Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month from 11 a.m. to noon. To attend a virtual meeting, subscribe to their e-newsletter on the task force’s website.

The event is free and open to the public. For questions, call 773-840-7310 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Senator Hunter reacts to Supreme Court's affirmative action decision

CHICAGO — State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) issued the following reaction after the Supreme Court struck down affirmative action in college admissions.

I am deeply disappointed by the Supreme Court's decision to roll back affirmative action in college admissions. This decision is a setback for racial justice, undoing decades of progress.

Affirmative action is a vital tool for ensuring that our colleges and universities are representative of the diversity of our society. This decision will have far-reaching implications, affecting our schools, workplaces and neighborhoods, making them less inclusive and less representative of the American people.

This is not about quotas or preferences — it’s about creating a more just and equitable society. We must continue to fight for affirmative action, not only in higher education, but in all aspects of humanity.

Hunter launches Summer Book Club for young readers

CHICAGO — State Senator Mattie Hunter announced the launch of her Summer Book Club to encourage young readers within the 3rd Senate District to stay engaged over summer break.

“Reading helps us learn and develop our imaginations and provides an escape from our everyday lives,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “I hope students will explore libraries this summer and find a few books that interest them.”

To participate in the Summer Book Club, students must read eight books of their choice during the summer break, record the names of the books on a form and return the form to Hunter’s office by Aug. 18. Every child who completes the Summer Book Club will receive a gift card and certificate.

Book club forms are available to download online or can be requested by calling Hunter’s district office at 312-949-1908.

Hunter invites public to attend legislative budget town hall

CHICAGO — To share important legislative and state budget updates, State Senator Mattie Hunter is holding a town hall on June 28 with State Representatives Kim du Buclet and Sonya Harper.

“This meeting will offer important updates on funding and legislation that impacts those in our community,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “I invite everyone to come out and meet me and Representatives du Buclet and Harper and take part in a productive discussion.”

The town hall will be held Wednesday, June 28 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Insight Hospital in the Great Room on the 12th floor. Attendees should enter through the hospital’s main entrance at 2524 S. Prairie Ave., Chicago.

The event is free and open to the public with light refreshments served. Registration is encouraged by calling Senator Hunter’s district office at 312-949-1908.